Joni Mitchell 's close friend has been put in charge of her medical decisions while she continues to recover in hospital.

According to the BBC, lawyer Alan Watenmaker told a hearing the singer is unable to confer with doctors, but it's hoped she'll leave hospital soon.

Judge David S Cunningham appointed Joni's friend of more than 40 years, Leslie Morris, her guardian.

Morris will reportedly not have any control over the star's finances.

Joni continues to recover after being admitted to intensive care last month, with her illness still to be confirmed.

Morris approved the most recent statement giving an update on Joni's health for her website.

Joni is 'alert' in hospital as she continues to recover (Image: Getty Images for NARAS)

It read: "Contrary to rumors circulating on the Internet today, Joni is not in a coma. Joni is still in the hospital - but she comprehends, she’s alert, and she has her full senses. A full recovery is expected.

"The document obtained by a certain media outlet simply gives her longtime friend Leslie Morris the authority - in the absence of 24-hour doctor care - to make care decisions for Joni once she leaves the hospital.

"As we all know, Joni is a strong-willed woman and is nowhere near giving up the fight. Please continue to keep Joni in your thoughts."

Joni previously revealed she suffers from Morgellons Disease, a mysterious condition that includes lesions and irritable fibres underneath the skin, and admitted six decades of smoking had "robbed" her of her voice.